NNSA plans aerial radiological survey of San Francisco area

Residents of the San Francisco bay area could see a low-flying helicopter operated by the agency that oversees nuclear material safety in the coming days.

The National Nuclear Security Administration said it plans an aerial survey of the bay between Aug. 27 – Sept. 1 aimed at improving aerial radiation measurement capabilities used by local, state and federal entities.

The NNSA has been conducting similar over-flights in the last few months. In May, it gauged background radiation in Baltimore. The agency explained that the measurement of naturally-occurring radiation to establish baseline levels is a normal part of security and emergency preparedness.